Clothing giant features its first-ever openly transgender model; Proceeds to benefit GLAAD’s work to build support for equality
GLAAD Press Release – Los Angeles, CA, June 8, 2012 – GLAAD, the nation’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) media advocacy and anti-defamation organization, and American Apparel, the vertically integrated clothing manufacturer based in downtown Los Angeles, today announced a new partnership and unveiled two shirts to be released in conjunction with LGBT Pride Month. Fifteen percent of all net sales will benefit GLAAD’s work to share stories from the LGBT community that build support for equality.
The shirts, which are now available online and in stores across the nation, can be viewed here: http://www.glaad.org/blog/american-apparel-features-its-first-transgender-model-glaad-staff
In a company first, American Apparel has also featured an openly transgender model in its ad campaign for the new items. Former America’s Next Top Model contestant, advocate, and openly transgender model Isis King is among those donning the shirts in ads featured on American Apparel’s website and in print. Photo available here: http://store.americanapparel.net/2011gokw.html
American Apparel employees will also join GLAAD staff in LGBT Pride marches across the nation, including in Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco. For more information or to join GLAAD and American Apparel at one of these events, visit http://www.glaad.org/pride.
“We’re super proud to support LGBT Pride again this year and partner with GLAAD in these events. It’s time for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, to accept each other and thrive in harmony. We hope everyone comes out and joins us,” said Marsha Brady, a creative director for American Apparel.
“American Apparel is showing bold leadership by being among just a few companies to include transgender people in its national ads,” said GLAAD President Herndon Graddick. “Additionally, the company’s statement that ‘Gay is OK’ will reach millions and send an important message in support of equality.”
About GLAAD: The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) amplifies the voice of the LGBT community by empowering real people to share their stories, holding the media accountable for the words and images they present, and helping grassroots organizations communicate effectively. By ensuring that the stories of LGBT people are heard through the media, GLAAD promotes understanding, increases acceptance, and advances equality. For more information, please visit www.glaad.org or connect with GLAAD on Facebook and Twitter.
